There’s nothing more frustrating than coming out to your car only to find that it’s been stolen. For some time, we’ve been observing car theft increase in the United States. This is because thieves have gotten more sophisticated in their methods, making it harder for us to keep our cars safe.

If you’re one of the many people who are concerned about car theft, here are some tips on how you can prevent your car from being stolen.

Lock your doors and close the windows

As the weather gets warmer, car thieves are starting to come out of hiding. Every year, hundreds of thousands of cars are stolen in the United States, and many of these thefts could have been prevented simply by locking the doors. When a car is left unlocked, it provides an opportunity for a thief to quickly jump in and drive off without having to break a window or use force. Even if you’re only stepping away for a minute, it’s important to lock your doors to deter would-be thieves.

You should also close the windows when you leave your car, as this makes it more difficult for thieves to reach in and unlock the doors from the inside.

Do not leave a spare key near your vehicle

Many people have a spare key for their car hidden somewhere near the vehicle in case they ever forget or lose their primary key. While this may seem like a convenient solution, it is actually quite dangerous. If a thief is able to find your spare key, they will have easy access to your car and can quickly steal it. For this reason, it is best to keep your spare key in a safe place that is not near your car.

Install an audible alarm system

One of the most effective solutions is to install an audible alarm system. These systems emit a loud sound when someone attempts to break into the car, deterring thieves and attracting attention from nearby bystanders. Many alarm systems are now equipped with GPS tracking, which can help authorities locate a stolen vehicle. With so much to offer, an audible alarm system is a wise investment for any car owner.

Don’t leave any valuables in plain sight

Car thieves are often looking for an easy target, and a car with valuables visible is much more likely to be stolen than a car with nothing in sight. If you must leave valuables in your car, be sure to hide them out of sight so that thieves will not be tempted to break into your vehicle.

Consider investing in a steering wheel lock

Another solution is to invest in a steering wheel lock, which is designed to prevent thieves from being able to steer the car. This is an especially good option for those who live in high-crime areas or park their car in public places. Steering wheel locks are relatively inexpensive and can be a great way to deter thieves.